Steering Torque Estimation for Sensor-Failure Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing steering control systems face dangerous situations when a torque detection sensor fails or malfunctions, leading to sudden changes in steering force that can threaten driver safety.
Innovation Solution
A steering control apparatus and method that calculates a torque estimation value using vehicle speed, steering angle, and lateral acceleration to control a dual winding steering motor unit, even if a torque detection sensor fails, ensuring normal steering control for a predetermined time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a torque detection sensor unit is used to detect steering torque, then steering control accuracy is improved, but system reliability deteriorates when sensor failure occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The steering control apparatus divides the torque detection function into multiple independent pathways: a primary detection pathway using torque sensors for high-precision measurement, and a secondary estimation pathway using vehicle dynamics models and other sensors for redundancy. This segmentation ensures that if one pathway fails, the other can maintain system functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes operational parameters based on sensor status. When torque sensors are functional, the system uses direct torque detection signals. When sensor failure is detected, the system transitions to using estimated torque values derived from vehicle speed, steering angle, yaw rate, and lateral acceleration parameters, thereby maintaining continuous operation.
2Reliability
If redundancy system with multiple sensors and ECUs is implemented, then system reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple sensor inputs (vehicle speed sensor, steering angle sensor, yaw rate sensor, lateral acceleration sensor) and computational functions into a unified torque estimation model. This consolidation reduces the need for separate redundant torque sensor systems while maintaining reliability through cross-validation of multiple sensor data streams.
Solution Approach 2:
The control module serves multiple functions: it acts as both a primary controller using torque sensor data and a backup controller using estimated torque data. The same control module can switch between different control strategies based on sensor availability, eliminating the need for completely separate redundant control systems.
3Reliability
If torque estimation is used instead of direct torque sensing, then system reliability under sensor failure is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements beforehand cushioning by preparing an alternative torque estimation methodology in advance. When sensor failure occurs, the pre-established estimation model using vehicle dynamics parameters provides a cushion that prevents complete system failure, allowing continued operation with reduced but sufficient accuracy for safety-critical functions.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a steering control apparatus and method. It is possible to provide a steering control apparatus and method in which, even if a failure or a malfunction occurs in a torque detection sensor unit, a controller generates a control signal by calculating a torque estimation value based on a vehicle speed, a steering angle, a yaw rate value and a lateral acceleration value and controls a dual winding steering motor unit using the control signal, thereby enabling normal steering control for a predetermined time.